News

Survey: Supply chain technology is a competitive advantage
As margin pressures increase, more retailers are adopting new supply chain technologies to streamline operations and remain competitive. Specifically, nearly three-quarters (74%) of top retail executives in procurement said that supply chain technology can provide a significant competitive edge, according to the inaugural Retail Pulse survey from C2FO.
No more tax-free shopping on Amazon
The party is over for shoppers that enjoyed tax-free online shopping — on Amazon, anyway. Starting on April 1, Amazon will collect sales tax from all states that have a tax levy. Only the five states that do not have a state sales tax — Alaska, Delaware, Oregon, Montana and New Hampshire — will remain exempt.

Value home décor retailer sees potential for major store expansion

When it comes to expanding its store portfolio, At Home has barely gotten started. Reporting strong results for the fourth quarter and full year, the home décor retailer also said it plans to open 25 new stores this year, with the potential for almost 500 more locations over the long term.
Supermarket retailer taps 24-year-company veteran to head real estate

A Publix Super Markets associate who started his career with the company as a part-time meat cutter has been named VP of real estate strategy. Publix promoted Bob Balcerak to the top real estate post, effective April 3, 2017. As VP, he will oversee the selection of new sites and management of leased properties for Publix stores.
Home furnishings giant completes another solar project

Ikea has completed the installation of one of the largest solar rooftops in Ohio. The solar panel installation is atop the retailer’s future store in Columbus, Ohio, due to open in summer 2017. The 213,000-sq.-ft. solar array consists of a 1.21 MW system, built with 3,546 panels, and will produce approximately 1,447,700 kWh of electricity annually for the store, the equivalent of reducing 1,017 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2).
Department store retailer taps former Walmart exec to head up supply chain

Nordstrom Inc. is expanding its supply chain management team.

Brent Beabout
Report: Baby Spice jumps into online retailing game

A former Spice Girl has a new career. Emma Bunton, a.k.a. Baby Spice, is the co-founder of a new environmentally-friendly diaper and skincare online store, according to Retail Gazette.
Walmart debuts updated Neighborhood Market format

Walmart is going on the offense as German grocery giant Lidl prepares to enter the United States this summer. The discounter has rolled out a new prototype for its Neighborhood Market grocery-store concept in a handful of markets nationwide.
Home storage retailer improves online experience, security

The Container Store has embarked on an initiative to optimize Web performance, the online shopper experience, and strengthen its Web security. Looking to significantly increase revenue from desktop, tablet, and mobile channels following a responsive web design launch, the company tapped Yottaa, selecting its online platform following a rigorous evaluation of multiple Web acceleration offerings, including in-depth performance benchmark testing.
Meijer expands in Indianapolis

Meijer continues to expand its presence in the Indianapolis area. On May 2, the retailer will open two supercenter in McCordsville, Ind., and one in Franklin, Ind. The Indianapolis-area supercenters are two of seven new stores Meijer is opening in Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin this year.